Cambridge Automation & Robotics BR+E Project – Economic Resilience in Action
In the wake of ongoing economic turbulence, first from the COVID-19 pandemic and more recently due to U.S. tariffs on advanced manufacturing inputs the City of Cambridge launched a forward-looking Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) project focused on its Automation and Robotics sector. Recognized as a priority cluster in the City’s Economic Development Action Plan, this initiative was purposefully designed to equip Cambridge businesses with the tools and insights needed to navigate evolving market conditions, foster resiliency, and safeguard long-term competitiveness.
The project’s primary objective was to directly engage automation and robotics businesses through in-depth interviews to understand their needs, identify barriers to growth, and co-develop recovery-oriented strategies. Twenty local companies participated in interviews between Fall 2024 and Winter 2025, representing a cross-section of the industry from small integrators to global tech firms. Survey questions explored critical themes: workforce, supply chain fragility, global competition, regulatory burden, market access, and more.
Key findings revealed persistent challenges: 65% of businesses cited difficulties accessing skilled labour, and 50% noted regulatory and market access barriers, particularly around U.S. trade policy. Companies expressed concern about the impact of new U.S. tariffs and a competitive disadvantage relative to U.S. firms receiving stronger federal support. Many had previously relied on U.S. capital for growth and expressed uncertainty about future cross-border opportunities.
The City is responding with a recovery strategy rooted in actionable data. The project culminated in a professionally designed, consultant-led final report and a June 2025 validation event where businesses confirmed the findings and help to shape Phase 2 priorities. These will include, but are not limited to developing a local cluster map, launching sector roundtables to foster collaboration, connecting companies to review alignment of curriculum with post-secondary institutions, and supporting export readiness for firms navigating tariff complexity.
What distinguishes this recovery project is its future-oriented focus. It anticipates the new economic reality facing Canadian automation firms including U.S. policy shifts, technology disruption, and workforce transformation. The BR+E initiative repositions Cambridge as a hub for innovation and resilience, aiming to promote local supply chain connections, support business adaptation, and advocate for stronger intergovernmental support.
The target audience included senior decision-makers from firms employing highly skilled trades and engineering professionals. Engagement methods were intentionally flexible, both in-person and virtual ensuring full participation.
This project serves as a replicable model of economic planning. It demonstrates how municipalities can move from data collection to implementation, addressing both urgent pressures and longer-term competitiveness through collaboration, insight, and targeted support.
